Hikers in Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve / photo by Lanette Otvos

California Beautiful

Sunday, July 20, 2025
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve
Approximate Total Miles
7

Join Docent Naturalists Jianfei Hu, Catherine Xun, and Susan Dunn for a challenging, moderately-paced hike through California’s diverse landscapes, from redwood forests to coastal scrub. You’ll explore how plants and animals adapt to the changing climate, learn how redwoods capture moisture from the fog to survive dry summers, and observe how coastal shrubs like coyote brush withstand strong winds and salty air. Bring a snack or lunch. (Note: It is highly recommended to bring hiking poles, as some sections of trail are quite steep.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after July 6 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close July 18 at 2:00 p.m.

Where to Meet

From the North: Accessible from Purisima Creek Road. From the Highway 92 and Highway 1 intersection in Half Moon Bay, travel on Highway 1 south approximately 4.3 miles. Turn left on Verde Road. After turning on to Verde Road and traveling 1/4-mile, continue straight to remain on what becomes Purisima Creek Road. (Verde Road splits off to the right.) Travel approximately 3.7 miles on Purisima Creek Road. From the South: Accessible from Purisima Creek Road. From the Highway 84 and Highway 1 intersection in San Gregorio, travel on Highway 1 north approximately 6.4 miles. Turn right on the third Verde Road intersection. After turning on to Verde Road and traveling 1/4-mile, continue straight to remain on what becomes Purisima Creek Road. (Verde Road splits off to the right.) Travel approximately 3.7 miles on Purisima Creek Road.

To ensure your experience on a docent naturalist outing is enjoyable please review these activity guidelines.

For more information about trail characteristics for this event, check out the Midpen Trail Explorer app. To learn more about ADA accommodations for events, or make an inquiry with the ADA coordinator, visit our Accessibility page.

If your activity requires registration, please be sure to cancel your reservation (from your confirmation email) if you are no longer able to attend so others can participate.

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